As Netflix’s Shogun continues to enamor the audience worldwide citing comparisons with renowned series like Game of Thrones, Hiroyuki Sanada’s performance stands out from the rest of the cast. However, this isn’t the first time Hiroyuki Sanada has elevated the screen with his performance.
The veteran actor is known to deliver outstanding performances through his sheer charisma, screen presence, and effortless agility. Even when he appeared for a limited time in projects like Avengers: Endgame and Bullet Train he has left a lasting impression.
If you loved Hiroyuki Sanda in Shogun, then you should definitely check out these 5 movies featuring Sanada.
1. The Last Samurai
The Last Samurai starring Tom Cruise was the first movie that brought Hiroyuki Sanada to the mainstream limelight. His role as Ujio was one of the highlights of the movie. Sanada’s chemistry with Cruise and his physical proficiency were applauded by the audience.
Set in 1870’s Japan, the movie boasts picturesque cinematography and enthralling hand-to-hand combat sequences. Especially, the final war is captured beautifully with almost all actors personally performing the sequences, bringing grounded realism to the action.
Fun Fact- Hiroyuki Sanada almost injured Tom Cruise during one of their sequences due to a technical mishap.
2. 47 Ronin
An ancient Japanese Saga filled with fantastical action set-pieces and sorcery, 47 Ronin features Keanu Revees and Sanada as Yoshio Oishi, the leader of a scattered band of warriors or Ronin. The story seamlessly blends historical Japanese events with movie magic to create a delectable tale of brotherhood, revenge, and deceit.
Hiroyuki Sanada as usual is in his fine form channeling the restraint, calm yet emphatetic nature of the Ronin leader. His screen presence with Reeves and proficiency in close combat sequences are some of the highlights of the movie.
3. Mortal Kombat
After the horrible 90s, Mortal Kombat and Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, fans of the Mortal Kombat franchise were finally treated with a decent adaptation of the iconic game. Hiroyuki Sanada brought the role of iconic Hanzo Hasashi/Scorpion to life in Mortal Kombat (2021).
A departure from the previous PG-13 outing, this movie under the production of Warner Brothers catered to the audience’s wishes and finally replicated the gore this franchise is known for. Sanada brought the much-needed vengeful characterization of Hanzo Hasashi and the brutality of Scorpion.
Sanada is all set to reprise his role in the upcoming sequel which is still under production.
4. Bullet Train
From the creative geniuses behind Deadpool, the action-comedy Bullet Train from David Leitch features a star-studded cast including, Brad Pitt, Hiroyuki Sanada, along with others. Although featured in an extended cameo, Sanada left a lasting impression as Yuichi Kimura, a vengeful father hunting his son’s killer onboard a train with assassins.
This comedy of error is a well-paced, action-oriented flick that doesn’t slow down for a bit (pun intended). Sanada’s portrayal as the remorseful father is on point, especially in his interaction with Pitt.
Like all of Sanada’s outings, his action sequences are flawless, depicting the grace and fluency that sets him apart from his co-stars.
5. John Wick: Chapter 4
Reuniting after 47 Ronin, Sanada features in this Keanu Reeves flick as Shimazu Koji, the owner of Osaka Continental. Sanada expends the Wick Universe to Japan and serves the right balance between hosting and hostility.
In the no-barred action sequences, Sanada’s proficiency with myriads of weapons is a treat to watch. His chemistry with Reeves and Donnie Yen is the main spectacle in his short screen presence. Despite his limited presence, he leaves a distinguishing impression as he gracefully overpowers waves of henchmen.
The brutality and swift action sequences the Wick universe is known for are in full swing. Especially, the corridor fight sequence between Donnie Yen and Hiroyuki Sanada is a testament to the level of authenticity, the veteran actor is known for.
